The right ingredients

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Cody H. Ramirez
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
A line of hungry customers extends 10 feet from the counter to the door. Drawn by the smell of sizzling peppers and bacon, they are met by the smiling faces of the Whiteman Bowling Center "morning crew."

The staff of the morning crew seems to have the right ingredients to settle their customers' grumbling stomachs, hoping to start their day with a smile.

Offering a variety of meal options, the center averages up to 80 customers between 7 and 10 a.m., each weekday. Menus are available online at www.whitemanservices.com and call-inĀ orders are encouraged.

"The food is always good here," said Staff Sgt. Dustin Styx, a customer at the center. "Breakfast, lunch or dinner, it all tastes great. The staff here is always kind and helpful."

Customers' attitudes mirror those of the center employees.

Debbie Hayes, a cashier, works almost every morning preparing supplies for the coming day, including answering phones and greeting customers.

"I love greeting people when they walk in," Ms. Hayes said. "They always have a story to tell or something interesting to talk about."

Traci Shields, a cook, orders supplies and prepares the meals.

"Debbie greets everyone with a smile and Traci is always right there when anyone asks for help," said Phillip Wagner, the manager of the bowling center team. "I couldn't ask for a better crew."

Mr. Wagner said these women represent the overall feel of the morning shift who directs the breakfast chaos every morning.

"I take pride in what I do," said Ms. Shields. "I know I'm doing my job right as long as people continue to come here."

Their job isn't what makes this crew unique ... the attitudes they maintain while working is what makes the team a rare collaboration, said Mr. Wagner.

"They are always busy, always moving and are very friendly and personable," he said.

"The team is always fun to be around and helps make the job non-stressful," said Ms. Shields. "I enjoy being around people, and all of my coworkers are great."

The bowling center customers may not realize it, but they serve up smiles to the crew.

"I appreciate people that tell us when we're doing a great job," said Ms. Shields. "Their words of encouragement really help."